The inspiration behind The Philosopher's Stem came from the concept of the philosopher’s stone, a mysterious and elusive substance rumored to have the ability to turn base metals into gold and silver, as well as create an elixir of life that can provide immortality.
While such a stone may not exist in our reality, I do believe in magic and alchemy, even if it looks a little different than it does in books and fairytales. In my herbalism studies, as well as my floral design work, I've witnessed the alchemical power of plants: to heal us, to guide and teach us, and to bring us joy and comfort.
I believe that creativity and beauty are also alchemical forces that have the power to transform and elevate our lives. By “beauty” I don’t mean the superficial, glossy type of beauty we see in magazines, but the beauty that we soak in through our senses, whether it's a sunset, a symphony, a sun-ripened raspberry, a kismet connection, or a kiss.
In addition, I believe we are greatly affected by the spaces around us. As a BTB feng shui practitioner, I have come to see that our outer environments are a reflection of our inner environments, and vice versa. Giving our spaces love and attention is mirrored in the love and attention we give ourselves. As creative beings, I believe it’s so important to make space in our environments for creativity.
My goal with The Philosopher's Stem is to share the beauty of creativity, plants, and art with you. My hope in doing this is that together we can uncover more magic in the world.
I am grateful that you found your way here, and I look forward to making magic together.
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about Maria
I am an artist, herbalist, poet, musician, certified BTB feng shui practitioner, and creativity guide. My mission is to uncover more beauty, creativity, and magic in the world. I do this by creating my own art as well as helping artistic beings to craft supportive creative practices and spaces.
I'm a classically trained musician, a poet, a floral designer, and I've been drawing ever since I could hold a pencil. I also believe “artist" can mean a lot of different things, and doesn't have to involve wielding a paintbrush or violin bow - I bring my perspective as an artist into basically everything I do, from cooking to getting dressed in the morning.
I'm also a certified BTB feng shui practitioner, a home herbalist, and a permaculturalist, which are additional lenses that inform many aspects of my life.
Fun facts about me:
When I was about 11, my most-coveted birthday gift was a reference book on herbs.
I didn’t have pets growing up, but I’ve fully embraced my inner cat lady after living with two cats who I truly adore.
I’ve always been kind of obsessed with color. In my mind, purple is basically a neutral.
I’ve never really been a coffee drinker, but I’ve been drinking herbal tea since I was a toddler - there is even a photo of me drinking tea out of a sippy cup in my crib. I still love herbal tea and am also very into my daily matcha ritual.
I can do a one-handed cartwheel.